In partnership with the Ohio Department of Higher Education, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has declared the formal opening of the Governor’s Merit Scholarship Program.
In an effort to boost the proportion of exceptionally talented high school graduates who choose to continue their higher education in Ohio, the Governor’s Merit Scholarship was included to House Bill 33, the most current state budget. For the first year of the program, which is available to graduating seniors in the top 5% of their class in the Class of 2024, a total of $20 million has been budgeted.
“With so many world-class higher education institutions in Ohio, we want to encourage all students to stay in-state as they continue their education and transition into careers,” said Governor DeWine. “Ohio is truly the heart of opportunity, and we want all Ohioans to find the path that is right for them, right here at home.”
As part of the launch, an online portal has been created for school districts across the state to transmit information about their eligible students. The portal – found at meritscholarship.ohio.gov – will also accept applications from homeschool students.
Since their eligibility will be decided by their school, students attending public or chartered nonpublic high schools are exempt from applying for the Governor’s Merit Scholarship. Students who homeschool or who are in dropout recovery from high school may be eligible if they pass the college admissions exam and apply online.
Up to $5,000 can be awarded annually under the scholarship, which is renewable for four years of full-time study. Money can be used for various educational costs including books, supplies, and lodging and board in addition to tuition and fees. The scholarship can be used at any nonprofit, public or private college or university in Ohio.
“With the Governor’s Merit Scholarship, we want to not only reduce any financial barriers that may impact a student’s decision to pursue higher education, but also recognize the impressive scholastic achievement of Ohio’s top graduates and incentivize them to attend a college or university here in Ohio,” said Chancellor Randy Gardner.
For students in the Class of 2024, the portal is expected to remain open through April 30, 2024.
More information is available online at meritscholarship.ohio.gov.
